photo: The Western Branded Skipper at Cordova Spit - another red-listed species.

VANCOUVER ISLAND BUTTERFLIES - IT’S A WRAP!

During the early fall of 2012 the weather was so good that the bird migration completely bypassed Vancouver Island. With no birds to photograph I turned to butterflies, and it didn’t take long to get hooked. Over the winter I discovered that 18 out of the 70 species recorded on Vancouver Island were species of concern because they were threatened, extirpated, or critically endangered, and many other species were experiencing population declines. Unfortunately, butterflies are defenceless and extremely vulnerable. They are under siege at all stages of their lives from parasites, predators, and extreme weather conditions. Those that survive the natural enemies must face the gauntlet of human hazards like habitat destruction, pesticide spraying, and habitat loss from human introduced invasive plants.

Despite the fact that butterflies are among the most beautiful, fascinating, and charismatic creatures on earth, most people know very little about them. Part of the problem is that butterflies are only visible when they are flying adults and that can be as short as a few days for some species. For the rest of their lives they are invisible as eggs, larvae, or pupae. Although my first intention was to simply enjoy photographing and learning about butterflies, I knew I had to do more. While most of the world was drinking champagne and singing Auld Lang Syne at the dawn of 2013, I made the New Year’s resolution to dedicate the next two years to increasing public awareness about butterflies. My motto for birds is, “People can only care about what they know about,” and that is just as important for butterflies. Obviously, if we have no idea what butterflies we have, where they live, and what they require for survival, it is difficult to protect them.

For the past two years I have been writing newspaper articles, uploading photos and journals to my website, and working on the book Vancouver Island Butterflies . I know my efforts will only be a drop in the ocean, but it is what I do best, and it is better than doing nothing. I am pleased to say that many people have shown their interest with comments about my articles, and I had many requests for the butterfly poster and checklist files. As well, the best laid plans of mice and men are occasionally successful, and I am happy to say that my book is right on schedule. After thousands of kilometers of paved and gravel roads, several hikes up Mt. Cokely, and more than a few trips to Whistler and other off-island locations for species that were difficult or impossible to find on the island, I am happy to report that I have seen 60 of our 70 species and managed decent photos of 55. In anticipation that I wouldn’t be able to find all our species I was able to purchase or borrow photos from other photographers for the final 15. (A BIG THANKS TO ALL CONTRIBUTORS)

As well, James Miskelly has been working diligently to update the distribution maps that were originally prepared by Cris Guppy and Jon Shepard for Butterflies of British Columbia which was published in 2001. The maps, photos, and write-ups, design, and layouts have all been completed and forwarded to the printers. All the remains is the tedious final proofing and editing when the printers return the proofing copy. If all goes well, the book will be published at the end of October.

The front cover has been redesigned to pay homage to one of the rarest butterflies in the province. It is the bremnerii subspecies of the Zerene Fritillary that is clinging to survival on Salt Spring Island. It is not found anywhere else in the province. The colour of the cover has also been changed to a lighter colour lessen the visual impact of scuffing. Despite using one of the most durable cover materials, the finish inevitably gets scuffed over time. The scuffing is most obvious on dark colours like my last two books. I like the brighter colour. It is more cheerful and definitely suits the subject matter.

The back cover features a few of my favorite photos: Hydaspe Fritillary, Western Pine Elfin, Purplish Copper, and Sara's Orangetip. If anyone cares, the ISBN for this book is 9780973816143.

BOOK ORDERS

There will be a limited supply of books printed. My optimistic projection is that it will sell out in less than two years. Everyone who pre-ordered will be reserved a copy, but please send me an email to remind me. The cost will be $34.95 at the stores, but I will do mail order for $25 plus postage or shipping.

Unfortunately, the books will not be available in time for my North Island College and Comox Valley Photo Club presentations. Like last year I have applied for the Fanny Bay and Denman Island Christmas Fairs. I will be happy to sign books at those locations if I am accepted.